What The Pandemic Taught Me About Managing Anxiety.
The journey ahead seemed like a stretch of a desert, it was difficult to endure and nothing in life seemed to work the way I had hoped. I was overtaken by crippling anxiety and I had no idea of how to get things done midst of a worldwide pandemic that continues to gather pace on the continent.
Carol Wangari 
The pandemic has brought many uncertainities and looking at my bucket list and all the things that I had desired to achieve, I failed to brace for what may come next!!! I was weighed down by failure, job loss, missed dreams, life pressures etc.
I failed to realise how much I was trying to get things done, I didn't understand the damage brought about by the spin wheels of anxiety. I strived too hard to reach my set goals in life but the harder I tried the further it eluded.
There are times when we try so hard to make things happen in our lives the urge to get things done right now over take us but let me encourage someone today that you’re not alone in feeling anxious, overwhelmed especially during this frightening times.
It’s natural to have worries, doubts and anxieties. However, constant worrying can sap your emotional strength, leave you feeling restless and jumpy, cause insomnia, headaches, stomach problems, and muscle tension, and make it difficult to concentrate on your daily routine.
If you feel trapped, overwhelmed, discouraged, frustrated or anxious, you need to stop, pause and evaluate where this is coming from. Maybe you need to figure out how to adjust your schedule, change your associations or change your career path, and maybe you just need more physical rest.
Constant worrying is a mental habit that can be broken. You can train your brain to stay calm and look at life from a more balanced, less fearful perspective.By practicing these steps to turn off anxious thoughts
ï‚« Take a time-out. listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head.
ï‚« Eat well-balanced meals. Do not skip any meals. Do keep healthful, energy-boosting snacks on hand.
ï‚« Get enough sleep. When stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest.
ï‚« Take deep breaths. Inhale and exhale slowly.
ï‚« Count to 10 slowly. Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary.
ï‚« Do your best. Instead of aiming for perfection, which isn't possible, be proud of however close you get.
ï‚« Accept that you cannot control everything. Put your stress in perspective: Is it really as bad as you think?
ï‚« Maintain a positive attitude. Make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
ï‚« Get involved. Volunteer or find another way to be active in your community, which creates a support network and gives you a break from everyday stress.
ï‚« Learn what triggers your anxiety. Is it work, family, school, or something else you can identify? Write in a journal when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern.
ï‚« Talk to someone. Tell friends and family you’re feeling overwhelmed, and let them know how they can help you. Talk to a physician or therapist for professional help
